Movie Producers Seek Partnership With U.S. Consulate General
Movie Producers Are Seeking Partnership With U.S. Consulate General
The Association of Movie Producers (AMP) on Dec 6th 2024 paid a courtesy visit to the Public Affairs U.S. Consulate General Lagos, with the goal of establishing a partnership and collaboration between the two organizations.
Led by National President, Amb. Dr. Queen Blessing Ebigieson, the team included notable industry players such as Olorogun Zeb Ejiro, Mr. Tade Ogidan, Hon. Shan Walker George, Anthony Chukuma, Favour Benson, and Eniola Ojeriakhi Asuelime.
During the visit, Amb. Dr. Ebigieson introduced the association, highlighting its 29-year history and 10,000 active members across 28 states. She expressed AMP’s desire to collaborate with the U.S. Consulate General, particularly in events such as the Nollywood Producers Summit in April 2025 and AMP’s 30th-anniversary celebration.
Amb. Dr. Ebigieson stated that the purpose of the visit was to seek partnership and collaboration between the U.S. Consulate and AMP, as well as to explore opportunities for the consulate to partner with AMP in their forthcoming events.
Mr. Tade Ogidan emphasized the importance of American producers visiting Nigerian film festivals, stating that it would provide an opportunity to scout for raw talents that can be used in their own productions abroad.
The team was received by Mr. Clemson Ayegbusi, the Established Opinion Leaders Specialist and Austin Emeanua, who is the Established Opinion Leaders Exchanged Coordinator both explained the consulate’s activities, which includes the Emerging Voices program, which supports young adults and university students while different sectors and associations are called Established Opinion Leaders.
Julie Mackay, the head of the Public Affairs, was represented by Amanda, who clarified that the consulate is a government agency that provides training and support for festivals showcasing Nigerian and U.S. connections.
Amanda highlighted the consulate’s efforts to support the creative sector, including a cinematographer’s training program for participants in the Zuma Festival. She noted that the consulate is willing to assist in acquiring quality equipment and facilitate connections with American companies.
Amanda explained that the consulate has a funding opportunity that people in the creative industry can apply for, and that some top producers and directors have benefited from it. She emphasized that one has to put up a proposal stating what they can do, and if it’s in line with what the consulate does, they will support the project.
Amanda also mentioned that there is an exchange program being put in place that will involve both educational and cultural exchanges, with countries eligible to participate including Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya.
Olorogun Zeb Ejiro thanked Amanda for taking the time to explain the consulate’s activities and encouraged collaboration between the consulate and AMP. He suggested that the consulate should work with AMP to ensure that the likes of Emerging Voices are registered members before benefiting.
Olorogun Zeb Ejiro shared his personal experience of benefiting from a 3-month crash program by the BBC, which involved scriptwriting, cinematography, and directing. He encouraged the liaison to ensure that opportunities get to the right people in the association.
Hon. Shan Walker George, AMP’s National Vice-President, appreciated the consulate’s efforts and asked how they support the film industry. Amanda responded that they don’t get involved in film production but provide training and support for festivals that showcase Nigerian and U.S. connections.
Mr. Tade Ogidan thanked and appreciated the U.S. consulate for their efforts and support in Nigeria.
_Publicity Secretary: Favour Benson_
